Prospective doctoral students

Massey University is committed to making sure students are well supported, have top quality experiences and graduate with skills that make them highly employable. We have world-class researchers supervising our students in a range of disciplines.

What doctoral study involves

The doctoral degree is the highest degree awarded at the university. The degree constitutes a significant piece of research in the form of a thesis or exegesis of up to 100,000 words or a series of publications that make a substantive and original contribution to knowledge. At Massey the research must be defended before a panel of experts and takes 3-4 years maximum to complete for a full-time student. The professional doctorates also include course work and in some cases internships/practicums.